Reece James injury: Mauricio Pochettino reveals when he expects Chelsea captain back as defender undergoes hamstring surgery

The Blues defender, who now fills the role of club captain at Stamford Bridge, finds himself stuck on the sidelines after undergoing surgery on a hamstring complaint. Injuries have become a familiar theme for Chelsea this season, with several key men spending time on the treatment table.

James will not be rushed back, with the 24-year-old full-back set to be given as long as he needs to make a full recovery. Quizzed on how long that process will take, Pochettino has told reporters: “We don't know, several weeks. I don't know if it's months. Assess him day by day and see if it as soon as possible. Several weeks for sure.”

Pressed on whether James could be out until the spring, the Blues boss added: “Hope less. That is my wish for new year. We cannot say or put on a period because always you know it's going to be how his body reacts.”

James has cut a frustrated figure on social media since picking up another knock, with Pochettino adding on his mental state: “I think he feels well. We were talking and he has started his recovery, he is one day closer to being with the group. This is positive, we are all going to help. Always tough for a player with a very complicated, difficult season for him. One day less until he is part of the group and we are going to take in a positive way and it's the start to solve the problem and helping him to be strong, be positive, because it is an important thing.”

Chelsea could do with having James around as they have continued to struggle for consistency in 2023-24. They are entering the busy festive period sat 10th in the Premier League table and with uncomfortable questions being asked of those charged with the task of delivering positivity on and off the field.